2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 500 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Dodge Nitro is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Dodge Nitro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Dodge Nitro (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Dodge Nitro | 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
Make | Dodge | Chevrolet |
Model | Nitro | Cavalier |
Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3701 cc | 2190 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 319 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1191 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4600 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 14.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 57 L |